MA in Theology (Practical Theology and Leadership)
This pathway immerses students in the realm of practical theology, guiding them to examine issues connected to pastoral ministry in all its diverse contexts. It caters particularly to those involved in pastoral work and leadership, as well as to practical theology researchers as the pathway fosters a thoughtful, critical exploration of 21st-century pastoral challenges.

Pathway Lead
Lydia Nelson, Lecturer in Practical Theology
Contact: [email protected]
Learn about the course
Classes
Students in this pathway take the core class Models of Theological Reflection (PT7620) or Leadership and Change (PT7631) and choose one pathway unit and two open electives. Available pathway units are:
- Social and Pastoral Implications of Holiness (ST7610)
- Social Entrepreneurship (PT7633)
- Christian Engagement with Islam (ST7650)
- Urban Ministry & Mission in the Global World (PT7660)
- Christian Spirituality (PT7500)
- Resilient Discipleship (PT7690)
- Urban Church Planting (PT7750)
- Theology and Culture (CT7630)
- Prayer and Personhood (CT7650)
- Church Planting (PT7630)
- Practices of Social Justice (ST7640)
- Contemporary Missiology & Culture: Map the Landscape (ST7665)
- Theological Foundations for Understanding & Practicing Community (ST7701)
- Theology & Ecology: Creation and Crisis (ST7800)
- Environmentalism and Christian Spirituality (ST7801)
- Research Methods & Literature Review (AS7595)
- Independent Study (ST7660)
Length of Study
1 Year (Full-Time) / 2-5 Years (Part-Time)
Course Accreditation
We are an approved partner of The University of Manchester and deliver programmes that we developed, approved by and leading to an award from the University of Manchester.
Start Date(s)
February/ September (flexible starts are possible, please get in touch to discuss)
Fees
Learn about our tuition fees by clicking here.
Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate
Alongside these pathways, we also offer a Postgraduate Diploma (four classes without a dissertation) and a Postgraduate Certificate (two classes without a dissertation).
Entry Requirements
- BA (Hons) in a relevant subject with a 2:1 or higher.
- If English is not your native language, you may be required to submit an English competency score through IELTS, TOEFL, or other equivalent exams. We require a 6.5 IELTS score of equivalent.
No BA (Hons) in Theology?
MA students with a 2:1 or higher in a non-theological degree can jump straight into their MA as long as they take Theological Engagement and Research Methods as the first of their MA classes. If you do not want to use one of your electives here or the class isn’t offered during your first semester, you can complete the Pre-MA programme below.
Lower than a 2:1?
For those with non-theological degrees lower than a 2:1, we may require a Pre-MA programme as part of your acceptance to NTC to ensure they thrive in our postgraduate programme.
The Pre-MA programme can be completed in 2 ways:
- Students can complete our self-directed Pre-MA programme with 3 modules (more details here)
- Students can complete the Practical Theology class from the self-directed Pre-MA programme and take Knowing God in Christ and Introduction to Biblical Studies at undergraduate level. Undergraduate classes will only run during term time
Proficiency in English
All teaching at the College is conducted in English. Applicants whose first language is not English need to demonstrate proficiency in English with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5, or its equivalent, overall. You are responsible for arranging to take the appropriate test and for submitting the documentary evidence.
Learn more about this course by attending one of our upcoming events.
Are you ready to take the first step in your theological journey?
At NTC, we offer a supportive and personalised learning environment where our experienced and dedicated faculty are committed to teaching theology with passion and expertise. With small class sizes and a focus on building confidence in our students, NTC provides a unique opportunity to engage with world-class experts in biblical studies, theology, practical theology, social justice, and ethics.